Could lithium-ion batteries be replaced by eggshells?

Researchers from Murdoch University have discovered that a rather unexpected component could be used for rechargeable battery units. This unusual component is an alternative we see every day but rarely think of: eggshells. 

COULD EGG SHELLS BECOME BATTERIES THIS TIME?

Associate Professor Manickam Minakshi Sundaram from the university's Harry Butler Institute's Water, Energy and Waste Centre has managed to develop a working model to obtain electrode material and electrolytes from eggshells. Under normal circumstances, the materials used for electrode production are both costly and not very practical. 

According to the report shared by Webtekno, Minakshi states that chicken eggshells are very rich in calcium carbonate, which allows them to be used as electrodes. Beforehand, however, the shells need to be baked and crushed. This makes the shells suitable for use in batteries. The researcher notes that lithium-ion batteries generally rely on fossil fuels for storage and are not safe in the event of major malfunctions. He also hopes that the use of biological waste will make a significant contribution to the renewable energy market. 

Minakshi's work focuses on developing sustainable electrodes for liquid-based energy storage technologies. Beyond its scientific contributions, this study is expected to make a major contribution to renewable energy research and the environment. 

According to the study, it is possible that liquid lithium and sodium electrolytes with high conductivity levels could replace the non-rechargeable batteries we currently use in the future. It is stated that the new batteries could provide high energy capacity, longer service life, and cost advantages. 

Following this discovery, there are plans to use eggshells in the future by enriching them with components such as biodegradable polymers, titanium borate/sulfate, or bismuth oxide. In this way, researchers aim to cross an important threshold in waste management practices.